Disgraced DJ Chris Denning Dies Behind Bars at 81
Chris Denning, the notorious DJ once linked to Jimmy Savile and convicted of horrific child sex offences, has died in prison aged 81. The fallen radio star, famous in the 1960s for his work on BBC Radio 1, was serving a lengthy sentence for 21 historic child sex crimes when he passed away.
Death Linked to Complications from Diabetes-Related Infection
Denning died on June 24, 2022, at Bedford Hospital. A coroner confirmed his death was caused by complications from osteomyelitis, a severe bone infection tied to Type 2 Diabetes. His death came to light this week after a report from the prison and probation ombudsman reviewed the circumstances surrounding it.
Convicted in Walton Hop Child Abuse Scandal
The DJ was caught up in the infamous Walton Hop investigation. He pleaded guilty to 21 offences connected to the teen disco in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, which ran from 1958 to 2001. In 2016, Southwark Crown Court sentenced him to 13 years for abusing 11 boys. Denning admitted to indecent assault and inciting gross indecency.
Already jailed for sexual assaults on 24 victims—including attacks allegedly at Jimmy Savile’s home—Denning’s crimes shocked the nation. Judge Alistair McCreath described his behaviour as “utterly depraved” with a “devastating” impact on the now adult victims.
Final Years Marked by Ill Health and Prison Transfers
Transferred to HMP Littlehey in 2018, Denning’s health worsened. He was admitted to Bedford Hospital in 2021 for Parkinson’s treatment. He spent his last days at HMP Bedford under constant health and social care until his death.
